GoldenEye
Oracabessa, Jamaica
GoldenEye spreads around beaches, gardens and a sheltered lagoon at Oracabessa on Jamaica's north coast. The estate is closely associated with Ian Fleming, who wrote his James Bond stories here, but its present character comes equally from the landscape and its collection of individual places to stay. Villas, lagoon cottages and beach huts offer markedly different experiences within the same grounds. The villas have high ceilings, hardwood floors, kitchens and outdoor dining areas, with private garden showers adding an open air element. Lagoon cottages provide direct access to the water from a personal dock and include a kayak for exploring. Beach huts use elevated positions and louvred windows to catch the breeze, making accommodation choice as much about atmosphere as size. Dining draws on Jamaican ingredients, including seasonal produce from Pantrepant Farm and fish from local boats. The Gazebo overlooks the lagoon and Low Cay Beach, while Bizot Bar and the Bamboo Bar on Button Beach provide more casual settings. Swimming, snorkelling and paddling give the days a gentle structure, and the spa sits beside the lagoon. GoldenEye suits travellers who enjoy a place with cultural history, distinctive rooms and a relaxed relationship with the sea.